This course provides an introduction to the key concepts, debates and practices that shape contemporary public policy. The course is designed to begin the process of inducting you into the discipline and developing your capacities as a policy actor. The course explores major theoretical traditions and debates in the study and practice of public policy. The course also explores the role of key actors and the way that they use processes and instruments to identify and progress policy goals.

Objectives/Learning Outcomes/Capability Development

Course Learning Outcomes- upon successful completion of this course you will be able to:

Define key concepts in the field of public policy;

Critically analyse key rationales and drivers for government intervention into public problems;

Critically analyse the role of key actors and institutions;

Engage with key debates about current theory and practice relating to public policy in Australia and elsewhere.

In this course you will develop the following program learning outcomes:

Make use of complex theories, diverse evidence and modes of reasoning, to extend and challenge knowledge and practice in policy and social innovation.

Overview of Learning Activities

Learning activities will include interactive workshop activities focusing on group-based discussion and problem solving tasks. Course learning materials will be made available in a range of formats, which may include lectures, guest speakers and online media. In workshops you will also develop academic skills including analytical reading and academic writing.

Overview of Learning Resources

You will be given access to a wide range of resources through a Course Reader or core textbook and also will be able to access to a wide range of online learning tools and content for your course from the student portal, myRMIT, and RMIT Library resources. These resources will include book chapters, journal articles, media articles, lecture notes, bibliographies for supplementary reading, video, and links to external websites.

Overview of Assessment

In this course, you will be assessed on how well you meet the course’s learning outcomes and on your development against the program learning outcomes.

If you have a long term medical condition and/or disability it may be possible to negotiate to vary aspects of the learning or assessment methods. You can contact the program coordinator or the Disability Liaison Unit if you would like to find out more.